Ambient air pollution is now recognised as the highest health risk factor in India. The entire Indian population lives in areas with PM2.5 levels exceeding the latest WHO annual Air Quality Guidelines 2021 (AQG) of 5 μg/m3. One of the strong light-absorbing components of PM2.5 is Black Carbon (BC) particles, which are released into the atmosphere from incomplete combustion. They can perturb the Earth's energy balance by absorbing solar radiation and modifying cloud microphysics, thereby contributing to global climate warming. BC emissions from India are among the highest globally, impacting the Indian summer monsoon, regional climate, and human health. While, from an economical and strategic policy intervention standpoint, BC particles are well suited for achieving co-benefits for both climate and public health. In addition, North India frequently suffers from extreme seasonal haze pollution. However, a complete understanding of the role of BC in amplifying pollution is still lacking. In this view, we attempt to assess the effectiveness of existing and planned air pollution control strategies in improving air quality in India. We compare alternate policy scenarios using the Greenhouse Gas-Air Pollution Interactions and Synergies -South Asia (GAINS) model framework with the baseline scenario reflecting the successful implementation of current legislation. We find that at present, the current emissions control measures aren’t stringent enough to improve the air quality in Northern India. While, even with the most advanced control measures (i.e. in the Net Zero scenario) combined with stringent policy enforcements, the future PM2.5 concentrations do not meet the latest WHO 2021 AQG for Northern India. The changes in meteorological parameters (like 2m temperature, wind speed and planetary boundary layer), detrimental to the dispersion of pollutants and haze formation show sensitivity towards changes in emissions reductions. Sustainable development and the Net Zero scenario are examples of the ambitious policies needed to achieve maximum air quality benefits in India. They potentially could be even more efficient if the role of BC in the formation of haze is better understood.